The Solar Eclipse of April 8, 2024: An HDR Revelation of the Sun's Corona from Westport, New York

The creation of High Dynamic Range (HDR) images of the solar corona is a fascinating challenge, driven by the need to capture the vast dynamic range of brightness that defines these celestial phenomena. This endeavor marries the artistic with the scientific, uncovering details and structures of the corona that a single exposure could never reveal.

 

The Solar Eclipse of April 8, 2024: An HDR Revelation of the Sun's Corona from Westport, New York

This particular HDR image of the solar corona was meticulously crafted from a series of exposures captured during the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. My setup for totality included a Canon Ra camera, a Canon EF200mm f/2.8L II USM Lens paired with a Canon 2x III Extender for an effective focal length of 400mm, set at F/8, ISO 200. The camera was mounted on an iOptron SkyTracker, and I utilized a laptop with the SET'n'C (Solar Eclipse Timer and Controller) for precise camera control. The range of exposure times spanned from 1/1000 to 4 seconds, encompassing 1/1000, 1/500, 1/250, 1/125, 1/60, 1/30, 1/15, 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, 1, 2, and 4 seconds.

During the eclipse, I successfully captured four complete series of photos at these shutter speeds, all in CR3 format. I then processed these files in a Raw editor, adjusting texture, clarity, and denoise settings before saving them as 16-bit TIFF files.

In Photoshop, I centered the photo by loading the images into layers (File > Scripts > Load Files into Stack...) and utilized the “difference” blending mode for layers, manually centering each image using the arrow keys. An average shift calculation from image to image helped address the challenge of centering overexposed images, which could not be simply aligned based on the moon alone.

To create a mean image, I converted the selected layers into a Smart Object and applied the Mean stack mode (Layer > Smart Objects > Stack Mode > Mean), then flattened the image and saved it as mean.tif. For the moon to be at the center of the image, I cropped it accordingly.

I applied a Radial Blur in Photoshop (Filter > Blur > Radial Blur) with the settings: Spin as the Blur Method, Best for Quality, and an Amount of 10, ensuring the moon was centered in the image. This blurred image was saved as blur.tif.

To subtract the blurred image from the original, I used the Apply Image command (Image > Apply Image), setting the source to blur.tif, with the blending mode set to Subtract and an offset of 128. I then compressed the dynamic range using the Levels tool (Image > Adjustments > Levels) and saved the file as subtract.tif.

Clarity Unveiled: High Pass Filtering by Subtracting Radial Blur from the Original

To multiply the mean image with the subtracted image, I once again used the Apply Image command, setting the blending mode to Multiply. The final image was saved as done.tif.

Final touches were made using Topaz Denoise, the Raw Filter editor, and other Photoshop tools to enhance the image.

Totality HRD Image v.2

The final HDR composition is not merely a visual feast but a technical triumph that reveals the complexity and elegance of the sun's atmosphere. These images are invaluable, providing insights into solar physics and the forces that shape the corona. They also offer a breathtaking visual experience that conveys the awe-inspiring beauty of solar eclipses to a global audience. Through this HDR image, the profound beauty of a transient celestial moment is captured, enriching our appreciation and understanding of the cosmos's wonders and presenting the solar corona in a captivating new light.

The Solar Eclipse April 8, 2024 during totality, seen from Westport, New York

Solar corona images of Total Solar Eclipse April 8, 2024 over Westport, New York

This composite image captures the ethereal beauty of the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, through a series of meticulously planned exposures. The photos were taken using a Canon Ra camera, renowned for its astro-imaging capabilities, paired with an EF200mm f/2.8L II USM lens and a 2x III extender, enhancing the camera’s ability to capture the fine details of the solar corona. To accommodate the wide dynamic range of the corona's light, nine different shutter speeds were utilized: 1/1000, 1/500, 1/250, 1/125, 1/60, 1/30, 1/15, 1/8, and 1/4 seconds, all at ISO 200.

Mounted on an iOptron SkyTracker, the setup ensured that each exposure was free from the blur that could be caused by the Earth’s rotation, providing a clear and steady view of the eclipse as it progressed. The use of a SET'n'C (Solar Eclipse Timer and Controller) allowed for precise control over the timing and execution of each exposure, crucial for capturing the fleeting moments of the eclipse with accuracy.

The final composite showcases the solar corona in unprecedented detail, from the bright light surrounding the sun to the outermost wisps of plasma stretching into space. The range of exposures reveals the corona’s complexity and the subtle nuances of its structure, creating a stunning visual representation of this awe-inspiring celestial event. This image stands as a vivid reminder of the eclipse’s grandeur, preserving the moment with clarity and detail that convey the majesty of the cosmos.

Baily's Beads - Total Solar Eclipse April 8, 2024

 

Baily's Beads occur just before and just after totality of a solar eclipse. As the moon moves to cover the sun completely, the rugged lunar topography allows beads of sunlight to shine through in some places and not in others. These beads of light appear to flicker around the moon's edges and are named after Francis Baily, who provided an explanation of the phenomenon in 1836.

This is beginning of Total Solar Eclipse visible from Westport, New York April 8, 2024.

Baily's beards image sequence

Image sequence of Baily's beads (diamond ring) at the second contact was captured with Canon Ra with an EF200mm f/2.8L II USM lens and a 2x III extender.  Camera was mounted on an iOptron SkyTracker and orchestrated by SET'n'C (Solar Eclipse Timer and Controller). The six exposures were all short at 1/1000, ISO 200 with camera drive set on continuous at 1 frame per second. 

The beauty of Baily's Beads lies in their rarity. Solar eclipses themselves are rare events at any given location, and the Baily's Beads effect is visible for only a few seconds during the partial phases of an eclipse.

The Baily's Beads effect is a powerful reminder of the celestial mechanics at play. It highlights the perfect alignment of the Earth, Moon, and Sun, and showcases the irregular, rugged terrain of the Moon—factors that are both scientifically fascinating and visually captivating. The sequence of images not only serves as a document of a specific astronomical event but also as an artistic representation of the dynamic, ever-changing nature of our universe.

In essence, a sequence image of Baily's Beads captivates by blending the precision of astronomy with the wonder of natural beauty. It freezes a moment of cosmic ballet, offering a glimpse into the sublime, ephemeral interplay of light and shadow, celestial bodies, and the laws of physics—a dance that, despite its brief appearance, leaves a lasting impression of the awe-inspiring universe we inhabit.

Total Solar Eclipse - April 8, 2024 | Westport, New York

Total Solar Eclipse - April 8, 2024 -Westport, New York

On April 8, 2024, a celestial event of spectacular proportions graced the skies: a total solar eclipse. For those of us in Westport, New York, the day held an air of anticipation, excitement, and a touch of the ethereal, as we prepared to witness day turn into night under the eclipse's path of totality.

Westport, nestled along the scenic shores of Lake Champlain, became a buzzing hub for eclipse chasers, all eager for a front-row seat to nature's grand spectacle.

Westport Golf, known for its lush fairways and stunning views, offered a picturesque setting for eclipse viewing. The expansive greens provided a clear, unobstructed view of the sky, making it an ideal location for observation. As the eclipse approached, the course was transformed into a field of curiosity and excitement, dotted with telescopes, cameras, and spectators donning their eclipse glasses.

The darkness of totality was profound yet fleeting, lasting approximately 2 minutes and 40 seconds. During this brief interlude, the surroundings were bathed in a twilight glow, a surreal moment that felt out of place yet deeply moving. The visibility of stars and planets in the midday sky, particularly Venus’s bright appearance, added a stellar touch to the spectacle.

My set up for Totality: Canon Ra, Canon EF200mm f/2.8L II USM Lens + Canon 2x III Extender = 400mm, F/8, ISO 200. The precision with which these images were captured was further ensured by the use of an iOptron SkyTracker mount, which tracked the sun's movement across the sky, eliminating potential blurring from the Earth's rotation. Moreover, the integration of the SET'n'C (Solar Eclipse Timer and Controller) provided an automated approach to timing and exposure adjustments, critical for dealing with the rapidly changing light conditions during the eclipse.

Beginning of totality,  diamond ring - single photo with fast shutter speed of 1/1000 sec. Amidst the rarefied beauty of celestial events, the Diamond Ring effect stands out as a fleeting, yet unforgettable moment. It heralds the beginning and conclusion of totality during a solar eclipse, a spectacle where the moon and the sun perform a celestial dance across the sky. 

Diamond Ring Contact 2 of Total Solar Eclipse April 8 2024 as seen from Westport, New York

Solar Corona - single photo with fast shutter speed of 1/16 sec. The image stands as a stunning testament to the celestial dance between light and darkness, showcasing the corona's delicate filaments and radiant glow against the backdrop of space.

Solar Corona of Total Solar Eclipse April 8, 2024 - Westport, New York

Solar Flares - single photo with fast shutter speed of 1/1000 sec. The conjunction of the eclipse with these solar eruptions offers a glimpse into the sun's dynamic power, highlighting the beauty and intensity of our star's active nature.

Solar Flares - Total Solar Eclipse April 8, 2024 - Westport New York

End of totality, diamond ring - single photo with fast shutter speed of 1/1000 sec.

Diamond Ring Contact 3 (Post-totality) of Total Solar Eclipse April 8, 2024 as seen from Westport, New York

First photo in the post - average mean of 40 photos with different exposure time from 1/1000 to 1/2 seconds.

As the eclipse passed and daylight returned, the sense of communal experience lingered. Gathered on the golf course, we shared in the wonder and ephemeral beauty of the cosmos, a reminder of the universe’s grandeur and our place within it. The total solar eclipse of April 8, 2024, observed from the Westport Golf in New York, was not just a celestial event; it was a profound communal experience, an opportunity to connect with the cosmos and with each other in a moment of fleeting darkness and enduring wonder.

Annular Solar Eclipse - October 14, 2023 | Odessa, Texas

Annular Solar Eclipse, October 14, 2023 - Odessa, Texas. The University of Texas Permian Basin (UTPB).

Canon Ra, Canon EF200mm f/2.8L II USM Lens + Canon 2x III Extender = 400mm, 1/640 sec, F/14, ISO 3200, Thousand Oaks Threaded Camera Filter 72-T, iOptron SkyTracker, Vello ShutterBoss II Timer Remote Switch 

Annular Solar Eclipse Composite Image

In the grand tapestry of the cosmos, few events capture the human imagination quite like a solar eclipse. While the Earth dances around the Sun, and the Moon orbits our planet, there comes a moment each year when these celestial bodies align in a breathtaking display of natural wonder. This momentous occasion is none other than the annual solar eclipse, a recurring phenomenon that continues to captivate, inspire, and remind us of the profound beauty of our universe.

The annual solar eclipse is not just an astronomical event; it's a celestial spectacle that has held a special place in human history and culture for millennia. As the Moon glides across the face of the Sun, it casts a shadow upon the Earth, temporarily plunging regions into darkness and transforming the day into night. The sun's corona, a delicate, fiery halo, emerges as the star attraction. People gather in awe to witness this cosmic alignment, pondering the mysteries of the heavens and feeling a deep connection to the vastness of the universe.

There are original Images:

1_Annular Solar Eclipse

2_Annular Solar Eclipse

3_Annular Solar Eclipse

4_Annular Solar Eclipse

5_Ring of Fire Eclipse

6_Ring of Fire Eclipse

7_Ring of Fire Eclipse

8_Annular Solar Eclipse

9_Annular Solar Eclipse

10_Annular Solar Eclipse

11_Annular Solar Eclipse

12_Annular Solar Eclipse

Camera set up for Annular Solar Eclipse

There are photos of Crescent-shaped shadows.

Using a kitchen colander during a solar eclipse is a fun and educational way to witness the celestial event. When you hold a colander up to the sun, its numerous small holes act as pinhole cameras, projecting multiple images of the crescent-shaped sun on any surface below, whether it's the ground or a piece of paper. The result is a pattern of miniature eclipses resembling a celestial sieve.

Crescent shadows through the holes in the colander that occur during the eclipse

As the moon begins its journey across the sun's face, the gaps between leaves on trees act as pinhole cameras, casting crescent-shaped images of the partially covered sun on the ground below. These shadow crescents mimic the sun's diminishing shape in real-time, creating a dynamic and awe-inspiring display. In addition to crescent-shaped gaps, the overall dappled pattern of light passing through the leaves forms intricate designs on the ground. The gaps between the leaves project countless images of the partially eclipsed sun, producing an artistic tapestry of sunspots.

Crescent-shaped shadows from trees that occur during the eclipse

New York City Solar Eclipse - June 10, 2021 - Astrophotography

Solar eclipse - New York City  Staten Island  - June 10, 2021. Approximately 70% of the sun is eclipsed by the moon. Photos were done about 5:30 am in the morning on sunrise. This is view from Staten Island boardwalk to Brooklyn near Verrazzano Bridge.

Canon Ra, Canon  EF 200mm f/2.8 L II USM Telephoto Lens

Solar Eclipse NYC - June 10, 2021 - Astrophotography

Partial Solar Eclipse Staten Island, New York, USA 06-10-2021

People, Birds and Solar Eclipse - NYC view from Staten Island to Brooklyn - June 10, 2021

Milky Way Casting Shadows - Chile Astrophotography - San Pedro de Atacama Celestial Explorations Star Tour

We know the Sun and Moon cast shadows. But if Milky Way is bright enough to throw shadows? This is panorama from San Pedro de Atacama Celestial Explorations Star Tour. On the photo you can see shadows of trees cast by the Milky Way!

Based on Bortle scale of night sky's brightness this is one of the darkness sky on Earth - Scale 1 - Excellent dark-sky site - The Scorpius and Sagittarius region of the Milky Way casts obvious diffuse shadows on the ground. Not so often can see something like this!

Milky Way Casting Shadows - Chile Astrophotography  - San Pedro de Atacama Celestial Explorations Star Tour

Green and red airglow is noticeable close to the horizon. The brightest "star" in the center is actually Jupiter. 

Canon 60Da, EF16-35mm f/2.8L II USM, 25.0 sec;  f/2.8;  ISO 6400 - Panorama of 20 photos

This image, slightly different version, has been chosen as Today's Image of the Day 17/11/2019. 

Dark Sky Travels Magazine

Dark Sky Travels Magazine Image of the Day

Unintentional Camera Movement Astrophotography

Most of astrophotography is long exposure photos (except photos of sun and some other exception). During long exposure time a lot of can happen. Tripod may move, focus of camera may change, etc. Sometimes you even not remember what happen and only see some strange result on photo. I started astrophotography in middle school with such weird photos. Photos had UFO, which I did not saw by naked eye. Probably it was reflection of car light but maybe not.

There is very close popular photo technic - Intentional Camera Movement. But I am talking about Unintentional Camera Movement. This is one of the photos from adventures in Bolivia. Photo was done in Salar de Uyuni. Interesting effect – looks like camera reached warp speed. No Idea how it happened, probably changed zoom.

Unintentional Camera Movement Astrophotography - Warp Speed

And this is one more example

Unintentional Camera Movement Astrophotography - Meteor Shower

Zodiacal Light Bolivia Astrophotography

Zodiacal light - Bolivia Astrophotography - 2 hours after sunset (elevation: 4020 m / 13190 feet). Jupiter is on the top of the image. Photo was done near Hotel Jardines De Mallku Cueva, Bolivia. New Moon. Canon EOS 60Da, 25 sec., Canon Lens EF16-35mm, f/2.8, ISO 6400, panorama of 3 images. Digital cameras are more capable in collecting light, but even visually the Zodiacal light was clearly visible to the naked eye.

Zodiacal Light Bolivia Astrophotography

Zodiacal light is a faint, diffuse, and roughly triangular glow that is visible in the good dark night sky far from any light pollution and appears to extend from the Sun's direction and along the zodiac. The zodiacal light appears as a column, brighter at the horizon, tilted at the angle of the ecliptic. The light scattered from extremely small dust particles. The source of the dust probably originated from the tails of active comets.

There is color variation of the photo

Zodiacal Light Astrophotography

Black and White version of the Zodiacal Light - most close to what I saw.

Zodiacal Light Astrophotography Black and White

 

Mauna Kea Observatories, Big Island Hawaii

The purpose of life is the investigation of 

the Sun, the Moon, and the heavens.

— Anaxagoras, Philosopher

Mauna Kea is one of the best places in the planet for an astronomical observation. The elevation is about 4,200 meters (13,800 ft). The atmosphere above the mountain is extremely dry and cloud-free, the proportion of clear nights is among the highest in the world with minimum optical turbulence.

Subaru Telescope Hawaii Mauna Kea Observatories

From left to right the Smithsonian Submillimeter Array, the Subaru Telescope, the twin Keck I and II telescopes, and the NASA Infrared Telescope Facility - Hawaii Mauna Kea Observatories

Note, that the Submillimeter Array is important component of the Event Horizon Telescope, which made photo of the Black Hole Shadow at the center of Messier 87 Galaxy.

W. M. Keck Observatory - Hawaii Mauna Kea Observatories

Big Island Hawaii Mauna Kea Observatories - W. M. Keck Observatory

Very Long Baseline Array Radio Telescope on Hawaii - Mauna Kea Observatories

NASA Infrared Telescope Facility Hawaii Observatory

Above the Clouds - Hawaii Mauna Kea Big Island

Skydriving  Hawaii Mauna Kea

Sunset Hawai Mauna Kea

Stargazing and Astrophotography near  MaunaKea Visitor Information Station

Night Sky MaunaKea Visitor Information Station

MaunaKea Visitor Information Station is located at the 9,300-foot (2,800 m) elevation, south of the summit.

Tennessee Astrophotography - Great American Eclipse - Total Solar Eclipse August 21, 2017

"The Sun was eclipsed; it was all gone. 

It was like ink and without light. 

The stars were visible in the daytime."

-- Hyaku Rensho. (Total solar eclipse of August AD 975)

There are photos from our families expedition to T-Lea Farm, Tellico Plains, Tennessee for Great American Total Eclipse August 21, 2017. In the Shadow of the Moon - 2 min 37 sec.

Solar Corona - Tellico Plains, Tennessee - Total Solar Eclipse 2017, New York City Expedition, photo by Igor Kuskovsky

Total Solar Eclipse 2017 August 21 Canon 60D  Tellico Plains, Tennessee, New York City Expedition, photo by Igor Kuskovsky

Diamond Ring Total Solar Eclipse 2017 Celestron Nexstar 4SE Astrophotography

Solar Corona Great USA Eclipse 2017 Celestron Nexstar 4SE Astrophotography

Solar Eclipse 2017 Aug 21 Dimond Ring and Solar Corona

Solar activity was pretty active (compare other days when no sunspots was visible). Three bright solar flares and couple of sunspot areas (Wolf Number about 66).

The Beginning of Total Solar Eclipse 2017, Aug 21 - Coronado SolarMax II 60 Telescope, Celestron Nexstar 4SE Tripod, Canon 60Da Camera, Tennessee Astrophotography

Total Solar Eclipse 2017 - Celestron Nexstar 4SE Telescope, Canon 60Da Camera, Solar Filter Spectrum Telescope ST525G, Tellico Plains, Tennessee Astrophotography

Telescope Nexstar 4SE Camera Canon 60Da Total Solar Eclipse 2017 Tennessee  Astrophotography

Temperature dropped about 10 degrees Fahrenheit (or 5 degrees Celsius) during the Totality. It was cold! Even small clouds disappeared around the sun, probably because of such temperature inside moon shadow.

Total Solar Eclipse 2017 Black and White T-Lea Farm Tellico Plains Tennessee Astrophotography

Tennessee Astrophotography - Great Total Solar Eclipse 2017, T-Lea Farm, Tellico Plains

Great American Eclipse August 21 2017 Celestron 4SE

Tennessee Astrophotography - At night before the Solar Eclipse - Milky Way - T-Lea Farm, Tellico Plains